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We've Been Here the Whole Time!: A Not So Sacred Guide to All Things Native America
Native comedian Joey Clift takes you on a hilarious journey to discover the largest population you don't know in this sharp debut for fans of Michael Harriot and Phoebe Robinson.
Put away the construction this contraband book contains everything your high school refused to teach you about Native American history, people, and culture—illustrated in an irreverent textbook-meets-notebook style by Diné artist Julie Fiveash.
Comedian Joey Clift (Cowlitz tribe) walks you through a wide range of misconceptions, weird questions, and even weirder assumptions, covering everything from Pocahontas and sports mascots to ancestry claims and the Land Back movement.
A hilarious, NDN-approved guide to Native AmericaGreat gift for history buffs, teachers, and comedy fansInteract with satirical flowcharts, quizzes, and moreJoyfully defiant illustrations by Julie FiveashForeword by Shane Hawk (Never Whistle at Night)Includes a trove of Native resources for alliesPerfect fans of The Daily Show's America (The Book) and F*cking History
Pick up this conversation-starting book and turn your boring Thanksgiving into a fun “You're Welcome” dance party!
Put away the construction this contraband book contains everything your high school refused to teach you about Native American history, people, and culture—illustrated in an irreverent textbook-meets-notebook style by Diné artist Julie Fiveash.
Comedian Joey Clift (Cowlitz tribe) walks you through a wide range of misconceptions, weird questions, and even weirder assumptions, covering everything from Pocahontas and sports mascots to ancestry claims and the Land Back movement.
A hilarious, NDN-approved guide to Native AmericaGreat gift for history buffs, teachers, and comedy fansInteract with satirical flowcharts, quizzes, and moreJoyfully defiant illustrations by Julie FiveashForeword by Shane Hawk (Never Whistle at Night)Includes a trove of Native resources for alliesPerfect fans of The Daily Show's America (The Book) and F*cking History
Pick up this conversation-starting book and turn your boring Thanksgiving into a fun “You're Welcome” dance party!
224 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 1, 2026
WE'VE BEEN HERE THE WHOLE TIME! A Not so Sacred Guide to all Things Native America by Joey Clift
@simon.audio @andrewsmcmeel
October 6th
This was a riotous education of Native American history, misconceptions, assumptions, and fascinating questions people still ask!
I will admit that I had done little research of the ancestral history of where I live until about a 15 years ago, when I realized I was not going to get to live overseas and experience a new culture. I realized then, that I didn't really know much about where I did live in its fullness. Being that I now live in a city named after a Native American People group (Wichita), it seemed a great opportunity, but I entered cautiously, not wanting to offend.
This book is so genuinely fun and helpful, taking a lighthearted approach to share why certain aspects of ancient civilizations might not enjoy being made into a mascot or monolithed into a caricature of a single image. Some of the discussions were basic human decency which seems ever lacking these days, but there were some truly helpful guides to issues that helped me understand more fully the history behind the emotional responses of justifiable offense.
This was a kind and generous offering to us who grew up being taught a minimalist version of history and the people who were, of course, HERE THE WHOLE TIME, and what we took from them without giving honor or even what we said we would give in return.
Narrated by the author, I was rolling laughing at so many of the exaggerated sarcasm he voiced! This must be cathartic. Again, so very generous and kind, and full of the humor to break the heavy truth.
@simon.audio @andrewsmcmeel
October 6th
This was a riotous education of Native American history, misconceptions, assumptions, and fascinating questions people still ask!
I will admit that I had done little research of the ancestral history of where I live until about a 15 years ago, when I realized I was not going to get to live overseas and experience a new culture. I realized then, that I didn't really know much about where I did live in its fullness. Being that I now live in a city named after a Native American People group (Wichita), it seemed a great opportunity, but I entered cautiously, not wanting to offend.
This book is so genuinely fun and helpful, taking a lighthearted approach to share why certain aspects of ancient civilizations might not enjoy being made into a mascot or monolithed into a caricature of a single image. Some of the discussions were basic human decency which seems ever lacking these days, but there were some truly helpful guides to issues that helped me understand more fully the history behind the emotional responses of justifiable offense.
This was a kind and generous offering to us who grew up being taught a minimalist version of history and the people who were, of course, HERE THE WHOLE TIME, and what we took from them without giving honor or even what we said we would give in return.
Narrated by the author, I was rolling laughing at so many of the exaggerated sarcasm he voiced! This must be cathartic. Again, so very generous and kind, and full of the humor to break the heavy truth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book Review: A Brilliantly Funny Crash Course in the History We Should Have Been Taught
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I picked up We’ve Been Here the Whole Time! expecting a witty little educational romp and was immediately won over by the cover. It has the visual energy of a notebook that has escaped from detention—and honestly, I would have paid good money for this book instead of the construction-paper “history projects” that apparently passed for Indigenous education when I was in school.
Joey Clift, a comedian from the Cowlitz Tribe, delivers exactly what the title promises: a sharp, accessible, and extremely funny tour through Native American history, contemporary life, culture, and the many baffling misconceptions non-Native people continue to carry around like emotional support luggage. With help from Diné artist Julie Fiveash, Clift explores everything from Pocahontas and sports mascots to questionable ancestry claims, the Land Back movement, and the astonishing things people feel comfortable asking Native people at parties.
The format is part irreverent textbook, part illustrated notebook, and part lovingly constructed intervention for anyone who has ever said, “But my great-great-grandmother was Cherokee.” The quizzes, diagrams, satirical flowcharts, and visual asides make the book lively and interactive without distracting from its substance. Fiveash’s illustrations and infographics are hilarious, expressive, and genuinely important to the storytelling rather than mere decoration.
What impressed me most was how effectively Clift handles serious subjects. His voice is conversational and inviting, but never evasive. Through personal stories, pop-culture references, and expertly timed jokes, he explains historical violence, ongoing injustice, identity, representation, and Native sovereignty in a way that is easy to understand without making any of it feel trivial. The humor opens the door; the history makes sure you stay in the room.
One especially memorable section tackles the common idea that Native history belongs exclusively in the distant past. It makes the point—loudly, clearly, and with excellent comedic timing—that Native peoples are not frozen in some imaginary premodern diorama. Indigenous history is still unfolding, and Native communities are living, changing, creating, organizing, and shaping the present.
The book is also wonderfully organized, and the material at the end adds real value. The glossary for allies, recommended books and media, acknowledgments, and other resources turn this from an entertaining read into a useful launching pad for further learning. It would make an excellent gift for comedy lovers, history enthusiasts, teachers, and anyone who wants a better understanding of Native America without slogging through a textbook that sounds like it was written by a sleepy filing cabinet.
With a foreword by Shane Hawk and a tone that fans of Michael Harriot, Phoebe Robinson, The Daily Show’s America (The Book), and Fcking History* will likely enjoy, this is educational, irreverent, visually delightful, and joyfully defiant.
Five stars. Read it, learn something, laugh responsibly, and prepare to transform your next awkward Thanksgiving into a “You’re Welcome” dance party.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I picked up We’ve Been Here the Whole Time! expecting a witty little educational romp and was immediately won over by the cover. It has the visual energy of a notebook that has escaped from detention—and honestly, I would have paid good money for this book instead of the construction-paper “history projects” that apparently passed for Indigenous education when I was in school.
Joey Clift, a comedian from the Cowlitz Tribe, delivers exactly what the title promises: a sharp, accessible, and extremely funny tour through Native American history, contemporary life, culture, and the many baffling misconceptions non-Native people continue to carry around like emotional support luggage. With help from Diné artist Julie Fiveash, Clift explores everything from Pocahontas and sports mascots to questionable ancestry claims, the Land Back movement, and the astonishing things people feel comfortable asking Native people at parties.
The format is part irreverent textbook, part illustrated notebook, and part lovingly constructed intervention for anyone who has ever said, “But my great-great-grandmother was Cherokee.” The quizzes, diagrams, satirical flowcharts, and visual asides make the book lively and interactive without distracting from its substance. Fiveash’s illustrations and infographics are hilarious, expressive, and genuinely important to the storytelling rather than mere decoration.
What impressed me most was how effectively Clift handles serious subjects. His voice is conversational and inviting, but never evasive. Through personal stories, pop-culture references, and expertly timed jokes, he explains historical violence, ongoing injustice, identity, representation, and Native sovereignty in a way that is easy to understand without making any of it feel trivial. The humor opens the door; the history makes sure you stay in the room.
One especially memorable section tackles the common idea that Native history belongs exclusively in the distant past. It makes the point—loudly, clearly, and with excellent comedic timing—that Native peoples are not frozen in some imaginary premodern diorama. Indigenous history is still unfolding, and Native communities are living, changing, creating, organizing, and shaping the present.
The book is also wonderfully organized, and the material at the end adds real value. The glossary for allies, recommended books and media, acknowledgments, and other resources turn this from an entertaining read into a useful launching pad for further learning. It would make an excellent gift for comedy lovers, history enthusiasts, teachers, and anyone who wants a better understanding of Native America without slogging through a textbook that sounds like it was written by a sleepy filing cabinet.
With a foreword by Shane Hawk and a tone that fans of Michael Harriot, Phoebe Robinson, The Daily Show’s America (The Book), and Fcking History* will likely enjoy, this is educational, irreverent, visually delightful, and joyfully defiant.
Five stars. Read it, learn something, laugh responsibly, and prepare to transform your next awkward Thanksgiving into a “You’re Welcome” dance party.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Straight up, this book wasn't written for me. It was made clear in the intro. HOWEVER, this was an enjoyable and somewhat informative read. I grew up in a town right next to a huge Crow reservation, so I grew up learning a lot of this information in school and just because I was in community with Natives. Now I didn't learn all of it as a kid, I learned about residential schools, First Nations, Kānaka Maoli, Inuits, MMIW, Two Spirit, and plenty more as an adult, especially in the last 6 years on tiktok. Getting on tiktok the algorithm just started dumping Native content into my feed, and it was nostalgic. But I already knew about plenty like Andrew Jackson, Indian Tacos (my dad has a great frybread recipe he got from a friend years ago), Dream Catchers, Powwows, and whatnot. But even with that casual knowledge, I was still able to learn a thing or two by reading this book. I am glad I was able to get a copy for free, but I think I'm gonna need to buy a physical copy to indoctrinate anyone that comes to my house with some truths, like Stephanie Meyer's unfortunate status. As the book says though, whether you are Native yourself and want to have a laugh, are realizing you've been propagandized your entire life and are starting to deconstruct and need an easily digestible way to learn, or some other secret third thing like me, this is a great book about the people who's land you may or may not live on. We can't really give it all back exactly, but you can sure as hell buy a damn book and learn a thing or two. And laugh in the process. There are some nutshots. And Deb Haaland, so.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I teach in a school that serves primarily Native American students. I have worked among various tribes in North Dakota for the past twelve years. I like to make sure my classroom is stocked with the latest Native American Young Adult books and literature. Will this book find a place on my shelf? Absolutely. There was a lot of interesting information told in a comical way. It is not your grandma's history book, and that is a good thing.
So why did I only give it four stars? I knocked it down half a star because of a section where he was talking about 23 and Me DNA tests and how you're not Native even if a DNA test says you are, but that really makes it difficult for people who do not know their heritage. I could understand if he had said if you is under a certain percentage (but then that starts to sound more like blood quantum). I think DNA is important, but of course not everyone should be claiming or assuming they are Native just because of old family myths.
I also knocked off half a star due to one picture with an arrow going into a place that I don't want to say in my review. It is not super graphic, so I would still allow it in my class, but it borders on what I would not want.
All of that being said, I would wholeheartedly have this book in my classroom. I am certain that Native students (and anyone who is interested in learning about Native History) would love this book. In fact, I think it is a must read for people everywhere to get a very light introduction to the atrocities that Native Americans have faced and how everything that happened wasn't just way back then. It is a book that can help build empathy and understanding, and that is a great thing in a book.
There really is a lot to love about this book, so I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in American History because Native history is American history.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of this book. Receiving this book did not impact my review. I really think the book is interesting and one that people should read.
So why did I only give it four stars? I knocked it down half a star because of a section where he was talking about 23 and Me DNA tests and how you're not Native even if a DNA test says you are, but that really makes it difficult for people who do not know their heritage. I could understand if he had said if you is under a certain percentage (but then that starts to sound more like blood quantum). I think DNA is important, but of course not everyone should be claiming or assuming they are Native just because of old family myths.
I also knocked off half a star due to one picture with an arrow going into a place that I don't want to say in my review. It is not super graphic, so I would still allow it in my class, but it borders on what I would not want.
All of that being said, I would wholeheartedly have this book in my classroom. I am certain that Native students (and anyone who is interested in learning about Native History) would love this book. In fact, I think it is a must read for people everywhere to get a very light introduction to the atrocities that Native Americans have faced and how everything that happened wasn't just way back then. It is a book that can help build empathy and understanding, and that is a great thing in a book.
There really is a lot to love about this book, so I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in American History because Native history is American history.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of this book. Receiving this book did not impact my review. I really think the book is interesting and one that people should read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is actually a biography of everyone’s favorite Cherokee actor, Wes Studi. Just kidding but if it was, that would be great too.
This is a cathartic, funny book, that volleys between calling the US to task on its treatment of Natives, and hilarious commentary on Native life and pop-culture. Sometimes, doing both in the same sentences.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
This is a cathartic, funny book, that volleys between calling the US to task on its treatment of Natives, and hilarious commentary on Native life and pop-culture. Sometimes, doing both in the same sentences.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
July 17, 2026
We’ve Been Here the Whole Time by Joey Clift is a fun blend of tongue-in-cheek pieces on how avoid being a jackass, important history, and current issues.
Some history was badass like Jim Thorpe, the native takeover of Alcatraz, and the positive impacts of Native casinos. A lot was dark because centuries of attempted genocide only has room for so much levity. Props to Clift for finding a way to talk about the inventive place someone shoved an arrow into General Custer, how colonization cooled the planet, and Indian boarding schools with ANY humor.
Clift reading Stephen King for filth was hilarious. A more competent writer than I needs to take some of his suggestions and riff on dark European lore. Maybe include how the pilgrims were worse at hygiene than RFK jr.
I’m including a blurb from the ‘What Office Character Is Your Spirit Animal?’ quiz. Some suggested we start saying patronus which worked until Moldy Mort reveal her true colors. Avatar is too general a term, Golden Compass isn’t popular enough for daemon to catch on. Given the atrocities of the Catholic Church, patron saint isn’t a bad substitute. If you’ve got any other suggestions, let me know.
A huge portion of American history is hiding how bad things were for anyone who wasn’t a rich white man. As people become less able to read at length and our government looking at the crimes of the past for ideas, books like this become increasingly important. It’s informative, accessible, quippy, and even has pictures. Out in October, bring a copy to Thanksgiving and see which relative you can piss off. 5/5
Some history was badass like Jim Thorpe, the native takeover of Alcatraz, and the positive impacts of Native casinos. A lot was dark because centuries of attempted genocide only has room for so much levity. Props to Clift for finding a way to talk about the inventive place someone shoved an arrow into General Custer, how colonization cooled the planet, and Indian boarding schools with ANY humor.
Clift reading Stephen King for filth was hilarious. A more competent writer than I needs to take some of his suggestions and riff on dark European lore. Maybe include how the pilgrims were worse at hygiene than RFK jr.
I’m including a blurb from the ‘What Office Character Is Your Spirit Animal?’ quiz. Some suggested we start saying patronus which worked until Moldy Mort reveal her true colors. Avatar is too general a term, Golden Compass isn’t popular enough for daemon to catch on. Given the atrocities of the Catholic Church, patron saint isn’t a bad substitute. If you’ve got any other suggestions, let me know.
A huge portion of American history is hiding how bad things were for anyone who wasn’t a rich white man. As people become less able to read at length and our government looking at the crimes of the past for ideas, books like this become increasingly important. It’s informative, accessible, quippy, and even has pictures. Out in October, bring a copy to Thanksgiving and see which relative you can piss off. 5/5
November 3, 2026
I seriously wish this had been published six months sooner, I am teaching Indigenous Art of the Americas this semester and would have absolutely made this required reading for my students. It's both funny and insightful, and I'm such a big believer in didactic learning that is also entertaining. Everyone in the US should be picking this up! Clift has such a great and punny time with what is a very serious and politically charged topic- there are so many people in the US and around the world who truly believe the Indigenous peoples of the Americas are all long-dead, but that's a ridiculous notion fed to us by poor media representation and racism.
A+ to this and can't wait to use it in future semesters. Absolutely brilliant.
thanks to netgalley for the advanced copy
A+ to this and can't wait to use it in future semesters. Absolutely brilliant.
thanks to netgalley for the advanced copy
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Funny, heartbreaking, and incredibly hopeful. Can't recommend this one enough.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Note: I received a digital review copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~Plot~
In his debut book, Peabody and Emmy-nominated Native comedian Joey Clift (Cowlitz tribe) takes readers on a hilarious, fearless, and deeply informative journey to debunk the wildest assumptions about Native American history, people, and culture. Illustrated in an irreverent, "textbook-meets-notebook" style by Diné artist Julie Fiveash, this guide addresses everything from common stereotypes, sports mascots, and Land Acknowledgements, to the "Land Back" movement and modern Native pop culture. Step away from the construction paper and the boring myths: this book is here to show that Native people aren't just a relic of the past—they've been here the whole time.
~Review~
We've Been Here the Whole Time is an extraordinary, accessible, and highly enjoyable educational resource that serves as the perfect starting point for anyone interested in exploring the history and contemporary culture of Native Americans.
Joey Clift’s writing style is fresh, direct, and conversational, making even the most complex issues related to historical and current injustices accessible and engaging. Through personal anecdotes, pop culture references, and sharp humor, the author successfully breaks down difficult topics without ever downplaying their importance.
Julie Fiveash’s illustrations and infographics are not only entertaining but also integral to the narrative. Particularly effective is the chapter dedicated to temporal overlaps, which serves to remind the reader that Native American history is not “ancient history,” but a constantly evolving present.
The book is very well structured, and the bonus content at the end, such as the acknowledgments, the “allies’ glossary,” and reading and viewing recommendations for Indigenous media, offers valuable insights and extends the learning experience.
~Other Information~
Author: Joey Clift (Illustrated by Julie Fiveash)
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Page Count: 224 pages
~Rating~
Overall Rating: ★★★★
~Link~
Buy on Amazon
Publisher
---Italian Version---
Nota: Ho ricevuto una copia gratuita da NetGalley in cambio di una recensione onesta.
~Trama~
Nel suo libro d'esordio, il comico nativo Joey Clift (membro della tribù Cowlitz, candidato agli Emmy e vincitore del premio Peabody) accompagna i lettori in un viaggio esilarante, coraggioso e profondamente informativo per sfatare i più bizzarri pregiudizi sulla storia, la cultura e le persone native americane. Illustrata con uno stile irriverente a metà tra un libro di testo e un diario di appunti dall'artista Diné Julie Fiveash, questa guida affronta tematiche che vanno dai cliché più comuni ai mascot sportivi, dai "Land Acknowledgements" su Zoom fino al movimento "Land Back" e alle icone pop contemporanee come Lily Gladstone. Una lettura nata per dimostrare, con ironia e precisione, che i popoli nativi non appartengono solo ai libri di storia: sono sempre stati qui.
~Recensione~
We've Been Here the Whole Time è una risorsa educativa straordinaria, accessibile ed estremamente godibile, che si propone come il perfetto punto di partenza per chiunque voglia approfondire la storia e la cultura contemporanea dei nativi americani.
Lo stile di scrittura di Joey Clift è fresco, diretto e colloquiale, capace di rendere comprensibili e fruibili anche i temi più complessi relativi alle ingiustizie storiche e attuali. Attraverso l'uso di aneddoti personali, riferimenti alla cultura pop e una comicità tagliente, l'autore riesce a decostruire argomenti difficili senza mai sminuirne l'importanza.
Le illustrazioni e le infografiche di Julie Fiveash non sono solo divertenti ma risultano importanti per la narrazione. Particolarmente efficace è il capitolo dedicato alle sovrapposizioni temporali, utile a ricordare al lettore che la storia dei nativi non è "storia antica", ma un presente in continua evoluzione.
Il volume è strutturato benissimo e anche i contenuti extra alla fine del testo, come i ringraziamenti, il "glossario per gli alleati" e i consigli di lettura e visione dedicati ai media nativi, offrono spunti preziosi e prolungano l'esperienza di apprendimento.
~Altre informazioni~
Autore: Joey Clift (Illustrato da Julie Fiveash)
Editore: Andrews McMeel
Numero Pagine: 224 pagine
~Valutazione~
Voto: ★★★★
~Link utili~
Compra su Amazon (in inglese)
~Plot~
In his debut book, Peabody and Emmy-nominated Native comedian Joey Clift (Cowlitz tribe) takes readers on a hilarious, fearless, and deeply informative journey to debunk the wildest assumptions about Native American history, people, and culture. Illustrated in an irreverent, "textbook-meets-notebook" style by Diné artist Julie Fiveash, this guide addresses everything from common stereotypes, sports mascots, and Land Acknowledgements, to the "Land Back" movement and modern Native pop culture. Step away from the construction paper and the boring myths: this book is here to show that Native people aren't just a relic of the past—they've been here the whole time.
~Review~
We've Been Here the Whole Time is an extraordinary, accessible, and highly enjoyable educational resource that serves as the perfect starting point for anyone interested in exploring the history and contemporary culture of Native Americans.
Joey Clift’s writing style is fresh, direct, and conversational, making even the most complex issues related to historical and current injustices accessible and engaging. Through personal anecdotes, pop culture references, and sharp humor, the author successfully breaks down difficult topics without ever downplaying their importance.
Julie Fiveash’s illustrations and infographics are not only entertaining but also integral to the narrative. Particularly effective is the chapter dedicated to temporal overlaps, which serves to remind the reader that Native American history is not “ancient history,” but a constantly evolving present.
The book is very well structured, and the bonus content at the end, such as the acknowledgments, the “allies’ glossary,” and reading and viewing recommendations for Indigenous media, offers valuable insights and extends the learning experience.
~Other Information~
Author: Joey Clift (Illustrated by Julie Fiveash)
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Page Count: 224 pages
~Rating~
Overall Rating: ★★★★
~Link~
Buy on Amazon
Publisher
---Italian Version---
Nota: Ho ricevuto una copia gratuita da NetGalley in cambio di una recensione onesta.
~Trama~
Nel suo libro d'esordio, il comico nativo Joey Clift (membro della tribù Cowlitz, candidato agli Emmy e vincitore del premio Peabody) accompagna i lettori in un viaggio esilarante, coraggioso e profondamente informativo per sfatare i più bizzarri pregiudizi sulla storia, la cultura e le persone native americane. Illustrata con uno stile irriverente a metà tra un libro di testo e un diario di appunti dall'artista Diné Julie Fiveash, questa guida affronta tematiche che vanno dai cliché più comuni ai mascot sportivi, dai "Land Acknowledgements" su Zoom fino al movimento "Land Back" e alle icone pop contemporanee come Lily Gladstone. Una lettura nata per dimostrare, con ironia e precisione, che i popoli nativi non appartengono solo ai libri di storia: sono sempre stati qui.
~Recensione~
We've Been Here the Whole Time è una risorsa educativa straordinaria, accessibile ed estremamente godibile, che si propone come il perfetto punto di partenza per chiunque voglia approfondire la storia e la cultura contemporanea dei nativi americani.
Lo stile di scrittura di Joey Clift è fresco, diretto e colloquiale, capace di rendere comprensibili e fruibili anche i temi più complessi relativi alle ingiustizie storiche e attuali. Attraverso l'uso di aneddoti personali, riferimenti alla cultura pop e una comicità tagliente, l'autore riesce a decostruire argomenti difficili senza mai sminuirne l'importanza.
Le illustrazioni e le infografiche di Julie Fiveash non sono solo divertenti ma risultano importanti per la narrazione. Particolarmente efficace è il capitolo dedicato alle sovrapposizioni temporali, utile a ricordare al lettore che la storia dei nativi non è "storia antica", ma un presente in continua evoluzione.
Il volume è strutturato benissimo e anche i contenuti extra alla fine del testo, come i ringraziamenti, il "glossario per gli alleati" e i consigli di lettura e visione dedicati ai media nativi, offrono spunti preziosi e prolungano l'esperienza di apprendimento.
~Altre informazioni~
Autore: Joey Clift (Illustrato da Julie Fiveash)
Editore: Andrews McMeel
Numero Pagine: 224 pagine
~Valutazione~
Voto: ★★★★
~Link utili~
Compra su Amazon (in inglese)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book took me longer to get through than I initially thought, and that was a personal misstep. I mostly read on my phone, and it's usually smooth sailing, but Clift's book has lots of images, diagrams, and text that I think I would find easier to read in physical form vs digital. But I did switch to reading it on a tablet near the end, and that helped a lot.
Oh no, looks like I need to buy multiple copies of this book /s
Personal misstep aside, I can't praise this book enough. Clift strikes a good balance between educating readers and cracking jokes. The letter to Stephen King and the ongoing list of people not invited to the PowWow are some of my favourites. Overall, I think the book does what Clift hoped it would. It's an accessible introduction to the indigenous peoples of America that explains heavier topics effectively while highlighting indigenous excellence, such as Deb Haaland and Jim Thorpe. And I think it's accessible for various reader levels. I can easily see this book in middle school libraries and in post-secondary institute libraries.
Obviously, the balance between serious and humorous will not be everyone's cup of tea. Some of the humour reminds me of the kind of sarcastic humour millennials grew up with, so it doesn't rely on niche 2025 internet meme humour (for example). But I still hope readers give it a shot! The humour isn't consistent throughout the book, but it's well done and thoughtful. For example, the section about Stephenie Meyers being a werewolf is obviously goofier than a sarcastic jab while explaining Indian boarding schools. The depth of information also varies throughout the book, which I would argue is another strength of it as an introductory book. Hopefully, it encourages readers to ask more questions and read more books and resources to learn!
Throughout the book, Clift draws attention to the timing of events by comparing them to something else that happened around the same time. For example, he reminds readers that the last Indian boarding school closed in 1978, which on its own might just be stored in “long ago” time (I don't remember where I read this, but I think some human brains have a hard time conceptualizing large numbers and time, and combined with how history is taught in America and Canada, it can feel like these events happened ages ago, even thought it was 3-4 generations ago). Anyway, the very next sentence says the first Star Wars movie came out in 1977. I really appreciated these time comparisons, and we get a timeline at the end that spans 6 pages that also puts into perspective how the calculated decisions to eradicate indigenous people from America weren't eons ago, but happening at the same time as the world celebrated things like the first airplane taking flight in France, Apollo 8 landing, Brat summer, etc.
The artwork is fun, and it almost feels like someone doodled in a history textbook (a better history textbook than the ones students from Canada and America get to read). Some quotes use a cursive typeface that I personally struggled to read. Not because I can't read cursive, but because that particular typeface was a little unclear. It has a very even weight. Unfortunately, I'm not very good at explaining why I struggled to read this typeface.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC. And thank you Clift and Fiveash for making me angry giggle; I wasn't aware I could do that.
And yes, I will obviously be going to Ilani Casino Resort; Clift presented a very strong case.
And yes, I have been listening to the Indigenous punk band 1876 since I finished the book.
Oh no, looks like I need to buy multiple copies of this book /s
Personal misstep aside, I can't praise this book enough. Clift strikes a good balance between educating readers and cracking jokes. The letter to Stephen King and the ongoing list of people not invited to the PowWow are some of my favourites. Overall, I think the book does what Clift hoped it would. It's an accessible introduction to the indigenous peoples of America that explains heavier topics effectively while highlighting indigenous excellence, such as Deb Haaland and Jim Thorpe. And I think it's accessible for various reader levels. I can easily see this book in middle school libraries and in post-secondary institute libraries.
Obviously, the balance between serious and humorous will not be everyone's cup of tea. Some of the humour reminds me of the kind of sarcastic humour millennials grew up with, so it doesn't rely on niche 2025 internet meme humour (for example). But I still hope readers give it a shot! The humour isn't consistent throughout the book, but it's well done and thoughtful. For example, the section about Stephenie Meyers being a werewolf is obviously goofier than a sarcastic jab while explaining Indian boarding schools. The depth of information also varies throughout the book, which I would argue is another strength of it as an introductory book. Hopefully, it encourages readers to ask more questions and read more books and resources to learn!
Throughout the book, Clift draws attention to the timing of events by comparing them to something else that happened around the same time. For example, he reminds readers that the last Indian boarding school closed in 1978, which on its own might just be stored in “long ago” time (I don't remember where I read this, but I think some human brains have a hard time conceptualizing large numbers and time, and combined with how history is taught in America and Canada, it can feel like these events happened ages ago, even thought it was 3-4 generations ago). Anyway, the very next sentence says the first Star Wars movie came out in 1977. I really appreciated these time comparisons, and we get a timeline at the end that spans 6 pages that also puts into perspective how the calculated decisions to eradicate indigenous people from America weren't eons ago, but happening at the same time as the world celebrated things like the first airplane taking flight in France, Apollo 8 landing, Brat summer, etc.
The artwork is fun, and it almost feels like someone doodled in a history textbook (a better history textbook than the ones students from Canada and America get to read). Some quotes use a cursive typeface that I personally struggled to read. Not because I can't read cursive, but because that particular typeface was a little unclear. It has a very even weight. Unfortunately, I'm not very good at explaining why I struggled to read this typeface.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC. And thank you Clift and Fiveash for making me angry giggle; I wasn't aware I could do that.
And yes, I will obviously be going to Ilani Casino Resort; Clift presented a very strong case.
And yes, I have been listening to the Indigenous punk band 1876 since I finished the book.
November 1, 2026
According to the 2020 United States census, there are around ten million Native folks living in the USA. We’re similar in population size to the Jewish American and Chinese American populations.
2024 poll from Edison Research showed that, by percentage, Natives voted for Donald Trump more than any other group. This made national news with the claim that 65% of Natives voted for him compared to 58% of white voters. What most outlets didn’t report is that they only polled 229 self-identified Native people, and none of these polls were conducted on reservations.
Please, please read this. Please please please take a minute and think of what the title means: they have been here the whole time. Natives HAVE BEEN HERE THE WHOLE TIME WE HAVE. Natives have been here the whole time, the entire, full, total, complete, always, constantly, continually, evermore, everlastingly (yes I looked at a thesaurus), night and day, at ever turn, enduringly, eternally, ages, on and on, till the cows come home. Every drop of water on this land, every blade of native grass, every grain of sand made their homelands. Really, really think of that.
I loved reading this book, with a lot of topics I already had learned in my decolonizing journey I have been on, but also new ways to think of it not so seriously, which makes the medicine go down easier. This is Decolonizing 101 with pictures and illustrations and jokes that are really funny. Everyone, read this.
Receiving a Spirit Animal is a specific and culturally significant event in many Indigenous nations. It’s a rite of passage that often involves days of fasting, prayer, and guidance from cultural experts in our communities. Not everyone does it because it’s hard to do, but when it happens, it’s a cause for celebration. It’s like being awarded a fancy medal but in the form of a nice wild creature. Saying that one of the characters from The Office is your Spirit Animal devalues that whole important process. It’s like saying you’ve got a Purple Heart when instead of being in the Army, you just bought one from a dusty thrift store. If you want to say that a fictional character is “my Spirit Animal,” maybe instead say, “I like that character!” If you must appropriate a culture while explaining how much you like Chester Cheetah or whatever, might I suggest saying that character is your “patron saint”? The Pope is very busy counting all of the riches the Catholic Church stole from Indigenous peoples, so he won’t notice you using their term, I promise.
Dear legendary horror author Stephen King, Instead of using Indian burial grounds in your books, have you thought about using European burial grounds? Europe is terrifying! They spend all of their time inventing things to kill and torture people! I mean, look at the guillotine, a machine invented just to cut people’s heads off; or “quartering,” an execution technique where horses are used to rip someone apart; or the “pear of anguish,” a metal, expandable torture device used to rip people’s mouths and butts open. The European continent is way freakier than anything Natives ever did!
Though a ton of people think a powwow is a gathering of coworkers to talk about spreadsheets, quarterly profits, and if your company’s upcoming merger is a good thing (it’s not), a powwow isn’t that at all. Powwows are an event for tribal communities to dance, eat a canoeload of frybread, and celebrate cultures that were almost taken from us. It would be kind of like if you said “let’s Catholic Mass about it” to describe an HR meeting, which would be weirder than the Pope’s big dumb hat!
2024 poll from Edison Research showed that, by percentage, Natives voted for Donald Trump more than any other group. This made national news with the claim that 65% of Natives voted for him compared to 58% of white voters. What most outlets didn’t report is that they only polled 229 self-identified Native people, and none of these polls were conducted on reservations.
Please, please read this. Please please please take a minute and think of what the title means: they have been here the whole time. Natives HAVE BEEN HERE THE WHOLE TIME WE HAVE. Natives have been here the whole time, the entire, full, total, complete, always, constantly, continually, evermore, everlastingly (yes I looked at a thesaurus), night and day, at ever turn, enduringly, eternally, ages, on and on, till the cows come home. Every drop of water on this land, every blade of native grass, every grain of sand made their homelands. Really, really think of that.
I loved reading this book, with a lot of topics I already had learned in my decolonizing journey I have been on, but also new ways to think of it not so seriously, which makes the medicine go down easier. This is Decolonizing 101 with pictures and illustrations and jokes that are really funny. Everyone, read this.
Receiving a Spirit Animal is a specific and culturally significant event in many Indigenous nations. It’s a rite of passage that often involves days of fasting, prayer, and guidance from cultural experts in our communities. Not everyone does it because it’s hard to do, but when it happens, it’s a cause for celebration. It’s like being awarded a fancy medal but in the form of a nice wild creature. Saying that one of the characters from The Office is your Spirit Animal devalues that whole important process. It’s like saying you’ve got a Purple Heart when instead of being in the Army, you just bought one from a dusty thrift store. If you want to say that a fictional character is “my Spirit Animal,” maybe instead say, “I like that character!” If you must appropriate a culture while explaining how much you like Chester Cheetah or whatever, might I suggest saying that character is your “patron saint”? The Pope is very busy counting all of the riches the Catholic Church stole from Indigenous peoples, so he won’t notice you using their term, I promise.
Dear legendary horror author Stephen King, Instead of using Indian burial grounds in your books, have you thought about using European burial grounds? Europe is terrifying! They spend all of their time inventing things to kill and torture people! I mean, look at the guillotine, a machine invented just to cut people’s heads off; or “quartering,” an execution technique where horses are used to rip someone apart; or the “pear of anguish,” a metal, expandable torture device used to rip people’s mouths and butts open. The European continent is way freakier than anything Natives ever did!
Though a ton of people think a powwow is a gathering of coworkers to talk about spreadsheets, quarterly profits, and if your company’s upcoming merger is a good thing (it’s not), a powwow isn’t that at all. Powwows are an event for tribal communities to dance, eat a canoeload of frybread, and celebrate cultures that were almost taken from us. It would be kind of like if you said “let’s Catholic Mass about it” to describe an HR meeting, which would be weirder than the Pope’s big dumb hat!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early review copy.
I downloaded this from NG because I was looking for a light, fast, fun read in between my other books. The description made this sound like a fun and informative graphic novel. Sounded perfect! This may be fun and informative, but it is NOT a graphic novel. It just has some illustrations.
This was written in a light and jocular tone, but I didn't actually laugh. I guess the jokes aren't really for me? Clift likes a lot of gross-out humor, dick jokes (there are SO MANY dick jokes), and irreverent humor. This will probably appeal a lot to high school students, especially boys. This book may serve as a fantastic jumping off point for many young people who read it, get interested, and want to learn more. Clift also loves Wes Studi - it's sort of a running joke throughout the book - so I hope someone gets a copy of this to Studi, he will get a kick out of this!
Was it informative? A little bit.
A few details (this is not an exhaustive list!):
* I'd never heard of a "land acknowledgement" before, so I learned about that (although I already knew the Onondagas were the tribe that lived here before, because ... they still live here!)
* As a jokey aside he mentions that someone in Europe invented spaghetti, which is wrong, since that came from China and Marco Polo brought it back to Italy. I honestly thought that was common knowledge. Not a big deal, but in a book that's trying to give credit where credit is due, he missed that. I hope this gets corrected in future editions.
* I did not know that the Alcatraz occupation was tied to wording in the Fort Laramie treaty with the Sioux, so that was interesting. (And I did not know that CCR donated money to the occupation.)
* I already knew that many ironworkers were Native, but I did not know why. I appreciated Clift's explanation of the Mohawk acts of courage and bravery.
* I'm not in any danger of "smudging" but I did not realize that non-Native people were using so much white sage that Native people were having a hard time acquiring it! That's ... a lot of sage!
* I appreciated the ongoing Star Wars references and analogies.
* I did not know the extent of the Indian Boarding Schools in the USA.
* The timeline of recent atrocities against Native peoples and Native wins, starting in 1890 and ending in 2025 was really well done. For each item, he highlights a pop culture event (Cheez-Its first sold in stores, Will Smith slaps Chris Rock, etc) alongside a Native historic moment (Osage Reign of Terror, a hotel in South Dakota banned Native people (yes, that's in 2022), etc). I wish more of the book was organized like this timeline was, it was a great way to highlight how RECENT some of these events are.
* This book ends with several pages of references for anyone who wants more: more TV shows, more humor, more podcasts, more pro wrestling, more documentaries, more novels, etc. It's a non-exhaustive list, there's even MORE more than he included here, but you've got to start somewhere! He ends with an open invitation to visit a local powwow.
I hope Clift writes another book, and this one is ALL a big timeline of popculture and historic Native moments, and no dick jokes.
I downloaded this from NG because I was looking for a light, fast, fun read in between my other books. The description made this sound like a fun and informative graphic novel. Sounded perfect! This may be fun and informative, but it is NOT a graphic novel. It just has some illustrations.
This was written in a light and jocular tone, but I didn't actually laugh. I guess the jokes aren't really for me? Clift likes a lot of gross-out humor, dick jokes (there are SO MANY dick jokes), and irreverent humor. This will probably appeal a lot to high school students, especially boys. This book may serve as a fantastic jumping off point for many young people who read it, get interested, and want to learn more. Clift also loves Wes Studi - it's sort of a running joke throughout the book - so I hope someone gets a copy of this to Studi, he will get a kick out of this!
Was it informative? A little bit.
A few details (this is not an exhaustive list!):
* I'd never heard of a "land acknowledgement" before, so I learned about that (although I already knew the Onondagas were the tribe that lived here before, because ... they still live here!)
* As a jokey aside he mentions that someone in Europe invented spaghetti, which is wrong, since that came from China and Marco Polo brought it back to Italy. I honestly thought that was common knowledge. Not a big deal, but in a book that's trying to give credit where credit is due, he missed that. I hope this gets corrected in future editions.
* I did not know that the Alcatraz occupation was tied to wording in the Fort Laramie treaty with the Sioux, so that was interesting. (And I did not know that CCR donated money to the occupation.)
* I already knew that many ironworkers were Native, but I did not know why. I appreciated Clift's explanation of the Mohawk acts of courage and bravery.
* I'm not in any danger of "smudging" but I did not realize that non-Native people were using so much white sage that Native people were having a hard time acquiring it! That's ... a lot of sage!
* I appreciated the ongoing Star Wars references and analogies.
* I did not know the extent of the Indian Boarding Schools in the USA.
* The timeline of recent atrocities against Native peoples and Native wins, starting in 1890 and ending in 2025 was really well done. For each item, he highlights a pop culture event (Cheez-Its first sold in stores, Will Smith slaps Chris Rock, etc) alongside a Native historic moment (Osage Reign of Terror, a hotel in South Dakota banned Native people (yes, that's in 2022), etc). I wish more of the book was organized like this timeline was, it was a great way to highlight how RECENT some of these events are.
* This book ends with several pages of references for anyone who wants more: more TV shows, more humor, more podcasts, more pro wrestling, more documentaries, more novels, etc. It's a non-exhaustive list, there's even MORE more than he included here, but you've got to start somewhere! He ends with an open invitation to visit a local powwow.
I hope Clift writes another book, and this one is ALL a big timeline of popculture and historic Native moments, and no dick jokes.
October 9, 2026
Brb renaming the office holiday to "Columbitch Day" since they won't call it Indigenous People's Day
Pros:
- talking about the history of the indigenous people's of US can be hard because, well, it's dark, dark, dark from 1492 on. Clift has really made it accessible through his humor and constant reaffirming of the fact that all these tribes are STILL HERE, regardless of what bullshit the US government tried in the not so distant past
- at first I wasn't sure why there were illustrations, and then I got to see a picture of Columbus kissing a manatee and then I got it
- one of my favorite things about reading history books is that they give you access to more history books via that sweet, sweet bibliography in the back. Clift also provides a list of native authors, comedians, actors, directors, charities, etc. that brings it out of just the literary space and into every day life
- my school was, as the conservatives say, pretty woke, but even then there was a lot of interesting info that I wasn't familiar with. It's pretty impressive how this is so limited in scope and yet there are a lot of really interesting/cool facts in here!
- so many books focus on the "then" like it's behind us, but I think Clift did a great job of showing how recent it all is
- similarly, many books focus on JUST natives in the past, and with the little "indigenous excellence" sections, Clift really kept the focus on the "we're still here" of it all, and the incredible things that native tribes from all over the US have done
- I think my favorite character was Pope Vampire
- similar to how the last execution via guillotine was the same years the first Star Wars movie came out, the last residential school in the US closed the year *after* it came out. That's right, residential schools outlasted the guillotine That's how you say ✨ not great ✨ I think it's so important to add the context of what else was going on in the world in a timeline to give some sense of scope to it, and Clift did that phenomenally
- this is a weird pro, but in a lot of these books, it feels like it's pandering to me, a white person. It's meant to get me involved and active, which always feels a little odd. Clift did not do this! It was more a "hi welcome if you're here, but more importantly, hey cuz" tone which was nice
- flow charts!
Cons:
- while this is a comedy book, it does cover the history of Native Americans which is often horrific. I think Clift does a great job keeping it grounded but not oppressive, but if you're just looking for a comedy book, maybe buy this and shelve it until you're in the right headspace
Overall:
I'm making my mom read this because she found out she was 1% native from a DNA test and we had to be like "you are white as shit" which is a weird conversation to have with someone who burns after being outside for 15 minutes
Pros:
- talking about the history of the indigenous people's of US can be hard because, well, it's dark, dark, dark from 1492 on. Clift has really made it accessible through his humor and constant reaffirming of the fact that all these tribes are STILL HERE, regardless of what bullshit the US government tried in the not so distant past
- at first I wasn't sure why there were illustrations, and then I got to see a picture of Columbus kissing a manatee and then I got it
- one of my favorite things about reading history books is that they give you access to more history books via that sweet, sweet bibliography in the back. Clift also provides a list of native authors, comedians, actors, directors, charities, etc. that brings it out of just the literary space and into every day life
- my school was, as the conservatives say, pretty woke, but even then there was a lot of interesting info that I wasn't familiar with. It's pretty impressive how this is so limited in scope and yet there are a lot of really interesting/cool facts in here!
- so many books focus on the "then" like it's behind us, but I think Clift did a great job of showing how recent it all is
- similarly, many books focus on JUST natives in the past, and with the little "indigenous excellence" sections, Clift really kept the focus on the "we're still here" of it all, and the incredible things that native tribes from all over the US have done
- I think my favorite character was Pope Vampire
- similar to how the last execution via guillotine was the same years the first Star Wars movie came out, the last residential school in the US closed the year *after* it came out. That's right, residential schools outlasted the guillotine That's how you say ✨ not great ✨ I think it's so important to add the context of what else was going on in the world in a timeline to give some sense of scope to it, and Clift did that phenomenally
- this is a weird pro, but in a lot of these books, it feels like it's pandering to me, a white person. It's meant to get me involved and active, which always feels a little odd. Clift did not do this! It was more a "hi welcome if you're here, but more importantly, hey cuz" tone which was nice
- flow charts!
Cons:
- while this is a comedy book, it does cover the history of Native Americans which is often horrific. I think Clift does a great job keeping it grounded but not oppressive, but if you're just looking for a comedy book, maybe buy this and shelve it until you're in the right headspace
Overall:
I'm making my mom read this because she found out she was 1% native from a DNA test and we had to be like "you are white as shit" which is a weird conversation to have with someone who burns after being outside for 15 minutes
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First off, thank you NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for providing this ARC book in exchange for a honest review.
I decided to pick up this book because I wanted to learn more about indigenous history in the United States and the ongoing issues that are still happening today due to the generational trauma of colonization. Joey Clift uses humor to teach about said topics in a way that makes it fun for readers and easier to approach hard topics, I did find myself chuckling reading this and looking at the drawings. I am going to recommend this book to everyone because it needs to be shared. It is important to learn this learn this history even if it makes you uncomfortable for we can grow as human beings.
A lot of us weren't taught this history in elementary or high school, if we were it was whitewashed and made the colonizers look like heroes, which is a bunch of sh*t. I love spreading the fact that Christopher Columbus was awful and he didn't "discover" anything and all he did was make the indigenous people who were already here lives a living hell. That being said, I learned a lot in this book and enjoyed it immensely. We have a lot to thank indigenous people for in the united states and worldwide.
Unfortunately, some of the quotes were hard to read for me in the cursive font that was used, I can read cursive but this was rather difficult. I wanted to bring this up for accessibility reasons though. That is my only complaint and doesn't affect my rating.
I decided to pick up this book because I wanted to learn more about indigenous history in the United States and the ongoing issues that are still happening today due to the generational trauma of colonization. Joey Clift uses humor to teach about said topics in a way that makes it fun for readers and easier to approach hard topics, I did find myself chuckling reading this and looking at the drawings. I am going to recommend this book to everyone because it needs to be shared. It is important to learn this learn this history even if it makes you uncomfortable for we can grow as human beings.
A lot of us weren't taught this history in elementary or high school, if we were it was whitewashed and made the colonizers look like heroes, which is a bunch of sh*t. I love spreading the fact that Christopher Columbus was awful and he didn't "discover" anything and all he did was make the indigenous people who were already here lives a living hell. That being said, I learned a lot in this book and enjoyed it immensely. We have a lot to thank indigenous people for in the united states and worldwide.
Unfortunately, some of the quotes were hard to read for me in the cursive font that was used, I can read cursive but this was rather difficult. I wanted to bring this up for accessibility reasons though. That is my only complaint and doesn't affect my rating.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Joey Clift first came to my attention in a now-infamous episode of a podcast I will not name to avoid drawing further attention to it, but he immediately gained my respect from that crazily uncomfortable episode for how he handled it. So, following that, I became a fan of his! He's a funny guy and I enjoy his fascination with Garfield! Once I heard he had a satirical history book coming out, I definitely wanted to give it a look-see! As an enjoyer of all things historical and satirical, it seemed like a natural fit for me. And I was right!
Clift's strong connection to his Cowlitz ancestry definitely lent credence to this quirky non-fiction book and I was happy to learn more about the history and culture of Native folks. I hear so much about the tragedy and atrocities they went through (as we should, none of that horror should ever be forgotten), but it was nice to hear plenty of positive elements mixed into this book as well. Bless up to Wes Studi! Also, the illustrations throughout were delightfully adorable and fun!
I also really appreciated the Stephen King callout segment! That out of touch yet talented goofball has been using, abusing, and appropriating Native culture by making it spooky for almost his entire career! Get it together, Steve!
This is a perfect book for non-Natives to be educated and from Clift's own mouth, also a great book for Natives to have a laugh and hopefully some catharsis. Check it out!
Joey Clift first came to my attention in a now-infamous episode of a podcast I will not name to avoid drawing further attention to it, but he immediately gained my respect from that crazily uncomfortable episode for how he handled it. So, following that, I became a fan of his! He's a funny guy and I enjoy his fascination with Garfield! Once I heard he had a satirical history book coming out, I definitely wanted to give it a look-see! As an enjoyer of all things historical and satirical, it seemed like a natural fit for me. And I was right!
Clift's strong connection to his Cowlitz ancestry definitely lent credence to this quirky non-fiction book and I was happy to learn more about the history and culture of Native folks. I hear so much about the tragedy and atrocities they went through (as we should, none of that horror should ever be forgotten), but it was nice to hear plenty of positive elements mixed into this book as well. Bless up to Wes Studi! Also, the illustrations throughout were delightfully adorable and fun!
I also really appreciated the Stephen King callout segment! That out of touch yet talented goofball has been using, abusing, and appropriating Native culture by making it spooky for almost his entire career! Get it together, Steve!
This is a perfect book for non-Natives to be educated and from Clift's own mouth, also a great book for Natives to have a laugh and hopefully some catharsis. Check it out!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an eARC for me to review! Reviewed with the caveat that I am non-Native.
If you're just starting out on your journey to understand the history of the United States of America (aka still known as Turtle Island) or you're already dipping your toes in the waters of discovery, and also enjoy a good satirical illustration of Chris Columbus getting kicked in the nuts, THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!!!
It's funny. It's quick. It's (mostly) well laid out. The section of overlapping historical moments was super informative. There's plenty of laugh-out-loud moments along with the very, VERY unpleasant realities that are often left out of public school history books. You may even be inspired to watch a Wes Studi movie or seven by the time you finish reading! There is also an AWESOME list of resources at the end of the book for further reading and support (and podcast recommendations!).
-1 star for the terrible font choice for the quotes and the fact that it's kind of an ongoing endless advertisement for the Ilani casino. Great if you are interested in casinos, but a little repetitive.
Mostly, I am hoping if you are reading this review, you have either also enjoyed this book or are looking for excuses to go borrow this book immediately from your public library if you don't have funds set aside for purchasing books at the moment, and might be inspired to do some more learning on the history under your own feet.
If you're just starting out on your journey to understand the history of the United States of America (aka still known as Turtle Island) or you're already dipping your toes in the waters of discovery, and also enjoy a good satirical illustration of Chris Columbus getting kicked in the nuts, THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!!!
It's funny. It's quick. It's (mostly) well laid out. The section of overlapping historical moments was super informative. There's plenty of laugh-out-loud moments along with the very, VERY unpleasant realities that are often left out of public school history books. You may even be inspired to watch a Wes Studi movie or seven by the time you finish reading! There is also an AWESOME list of resources at the end of the book for further reading and support (and podcast recommendations!).
-1 star for the terrible font choice for the quotes and the fact that it's kind of an ongoing endless advertisement for the Ilani casino. Great if you are interested in casinos, but a little repetitive.
Mostly, I am hoping if you are reading this review, you have either also enjoyed this book or are looking for excuses to go borrow this book immediately from your public library if you don't have funds set aside for purchasing books at the moment, and might be inspired to do some more learning on the history under your own feet.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How well do you know American Indigenous history? Don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz. If anything, the author will make sure you get all the history in small pieces easy enough to digest, with a bit of humor thrown in. Come on in, the water’s fine.
First thing, we get to know what to call American Indigenous peoples. As the author says, Canada has it all sown up with First Nations (although technically, Canadians also refer to Métis and Inuit as well, but that is a story for another day.) The most important point is that most people prefer to be referred to by their tribe.
There is a running gag about who should never be invited to a powwow, and number one on the list, of course, is Christopher Columbus. And of course there is Andrew Jackson as the number 2 person.
This is a fun book, and not something for non-Native people to be intimidated about. It is a great way to learn the history that is often left out of the history books. Even if you just read the chapter headings, it will give you a good idea of what is to come. “How long would Lewis and CLark have survived without Sacagawea?” The answer was not long.
I like to think I know a lot of history, but I found things that I didn’t know, and was quite pleased to learn about it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 6th of October 2026.
First thing, we get to know what to call American Indigenous peoples. As the author says, Canada has it all sown up with First Nations (although technically, Canadians also refer to Métis and Inuit as well, but that is a story for another day.) The most important point is that most people prefer to be referred to by their tribe.
There is a running gag about who should never be invited to a powwow, and number one on the list, of course, is Christopher Columbus. And of course there is Andrew Jackson as the number 2 person.
This is a fun book, and not something for non-Native people to be intimidated about. It is a great way to learn the history that is often left out of the history books. Even if you just read the chapter headings, it will give you a good idea of what is to come. “How long would Lewis and CLark have survived without Sacagawea?” The answer was not long.
I like to think I know a lot of history, but I found things that I didn’t know, and was quite pleased to learn about it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 6th of October 2026.
August 22, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Andrews McMeel, and Joey Clift for this advanced reader copy!
This book is absolutely fabulous! Joey Clift’s We’ve Been Here the Whole Time straddles the line between educational and funny perfectly. The book is well organized like an actual textbook, but also contains smaller story vignettes throughout to keep the reader interested throughout. The whole book is packed with facts many non-Native readers won’t be as familiar with. One of the most impactful parts was the timeline that placed familiar American cultural touchstones along side various pieces of anti-Native legislation or movements.
I think one of the best things We’ve Been Here the Whole Time does is to spend more time on little known facts or episodes of history, or spotlights on Native people and their work rather than all horribly tragic things that have been done to indigenous people. And that’s not because I don’t think those horrors should be shared—they absolutely should. But it is also really great to see so many more of the incredible things Native people have done, even under crushing oppression from the US government and colonizers!
I teach history in a state with 29 reservations and many indigenous students, and our state and district are fortunately including much more about indigenous history in the state, the US, and the world. I would actually love to use portions of this book with my classes!
This book is absolutely fabulous! Joey Clift’s We’ve Been Here the Whole Time straddles the line between educational and funny perfectly. The book is well organized like an actual textbook, but also contains smaller story vignettes throughout to keep the reader interested throughout. The whole book is packed with facts many non-Native readers won’t be as familiar with. One of the most impactful parts was the timeline that placed familiar American cultural touchstones along side various pieces of anti-Native legislation or movements.
I think one of the best things We’ve Been Here the Whole Time does is to spend more time on little known facts or episodes of history, or spotlights on Native people and their work rather than all horribly tragic things that have been done to indigenous people. And that’s not because I don’t think those horrors should be shared—they absolutely should. But it is also really great to see so many more of the incredible things Native people have done, even under crushing oppression from the US government and colonizers!
I teach history in a state with 29 reservations and many indigenous students, and our state and district are fortunately including much more about indigenous history in the state, the US, and the world. I would actually love to use portions of this book with my classes!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is funny and sarcastic….but also he's so real for most of the stuff in here. Even so, I wouldn't say he speaks for all Natives and I'm sure he would agree. There are nuances, like sure a lot of us don't really celebrate Thanksgiving because it's seen as a celebration of the beginning of the end of our cultures. However, many of us do celebrate it because we love an excuse to get together and eat pumpkin pie and check our blood sugar as a group activity. However, there are a lot of universal experiences that many of us encounter all. the. time. Native history doesn't belong in the past because it's still informing the present. Most people don't realize that the treaties signed and ratified were and still are legally binding documents that the U.S. government has spent a lot of time and money trying to get rid of and pretend that they don't exist.
Joey Clift does a fantastic job of laying out a bare bones history and giving the reader resources while being hilarious but not lighthearted.
Also, Andrew Jackson can get wrecked. All my homies hate AJ.
This is entertaining and informative and would make a great cheeky little coffee table book. But also a fun passive aggressive gift the next time your boss says it's time for the morning pow-wow.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Andrews McMeel Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Joey Clift does a fantastic job of laying out a bare bones history and giving the reader resources while being hilarious but not lighthearted.
Also, Andrew Jackson can get wrecked. All my homies hate AJ.
This is entertaining and informative and would make a great cheeky little coffee table book. But also a fun passive aggressive gift the next time your boss says it's time for the morning pow-wow.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Andrews McMeel Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've had a few conversations with people who didn't know where to start when it comes to learning more about Native history, Land Back (and other Native movements), or how to do a land acknowledgement, and so they simply didn't start anywhere. The greatest gift this book offers is as a place to start or as a place to dive deeper if you're already familiar with Native history.
Then there's the fact that it's genuinely informative and genuinely hilarious. When I wasn't giggling my way through the chapters, I was going, "Wait, forreal?" over historical events I'd never heard of before or tearing up over the Lily Gladstone section. It takes real talent to present some of the most fraught and traumatic parts of history with enough approachability that everyone can (or should be able to) absorb it with empathy and understanding. Having a strong sense of humor on top of that is what makes Joey Clift such an exceptional writer.
I loved the ongoing jokes (all I'm gonna say is "manatees"), the asides, and the illustrations. The formatting, which can get cluttered in books like this, is really well balanced and varied enough to maintain engagement. My only complaint (as teeny tiny as it is) is that the script-style font used for quotes might be hard to read for my fellow dyslexics. Everything else, cover to cover, is spectacular. If I could give this six stars, I would.
Then there's the fact that it's genuinely informative and genuinely hilarious. When I wasn't giggling my way through the chapters, I was going, "Wait, forreal?" over historical events I'd never heard of before or tearing up over the Lily Gladstone section. It takes real talent to present some of the most fraught and traumatic parts of history with enough approachability that everyone can (or should be able to) absorb it with empathy and understanding. Having a strong sense of humor on top of that is what makes Joey Clift such an exceptional writer.
I loved the ongoing jokes (all I'm gonna say is "manatees"), the asides, and the illustrations. The formatting, which can get cluttered in books like this, is really well balanced and varied enough to maintain engagement. My only complaint (as teeny tiny as it is) is that the script-style font used for quotes might be hard to read for my fellow dyslexics. Everything else, cover to cover, is spectacular. If I could give this six stars, I would.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Andrews McNeel Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC for review!
Half non-fiction lowdown on Native history in the United States and half jokey coffee table book, We've Been Here the Whole Time! is a pretty good addition to "how the US public education system failed you" repertoire. At least for me - I graduated public high school in the early 2000s and I have done SO MUCH learning/unlearning since then but there's always more! Always. A good primer because basically everybody needs to do the work, and it's a really good place to start the work when so much can be overwhelming.
This book breaks down a lot of that learning/unlearning and is interspersed with some jokes throughout the seriousness of the horrors to indigenous peoples of the Americas and beyond, slowly ramping up intensity. It also has a lot of great illustrations (though less than I was expecting somehow) including some booo-worthy public figures getting kicked by cartoon actors/buffalo/etc.
The only thing that had my mouth going kinda sideways was how OFTEN Clift held up his tribe's casino in Washington - like yes, Indian Casinos are pretty cool and do a lot for the community/economy, but he mentions (and not only mentions, but tells the reader to go, including a full bullet list) at least four times.
Half non-fiction lowdown on Native history in the United States and half jokey coffee table book, We've Been Here the Whole Time! is a pretty good addition to "how the US public education system failed you" repertoire. At least for me - I graduated public high school in the early 2000s and I have done SO MUCH learning/unlearning since then but there's always more! Always. A good primer because basically everybody needs to do the work, and it's a really good place to start the work when so much can be overwhelming.
This book breaks down a lot of that learning/unlearning and is interspersed with some jokes throughout the seriousness of the horrors to indigenous peoples of the Americas and beyond, slowly ramping up intensity. It also has a lot of great illustrations (though less than I was expecting somehow) including some booo-worthy public figures getting kicked by cartoon actors/buffalo/etc.
The only thing that had my mouth going kinda sideways was how OFTEN Clift held up his tribe's casino in Washington - like yes, Indian Casinos are pretty cool and do a lot for the community/economy, but he mentions (and not only mentions, but tells the reader to go, including a full bullet list) at least four times.
November 6, 2026
I forgot how I came across book but wanted to knock it off my reading list and found Native American Heritage Month the perfect time to do it. As the cover says, this is author Clift giving us the history that you didn't learn in school. Ranging from Christopher Columbus to sports mascots and everything in between, Clift reminds us of the history and Native peoples who have, in fact, been here the whole time.
There are basically short entries about various topics: those mentioned above but many of those you maybe heard of or haven't read more about. There are a few pages for each (it varies but none go on too long), along with some illustrations and pictures. It's a light, breezy book overall that is not meant to be a scholarly work.
That's pretty much it. If you wanted to know more about Natives in what is now in the United States, this is a relatively "easy" entry that isn't too serious and does not get too "academic". It feels like a casual conversation. Clift also acknowledges that not all Natives would agree with him either, which is always a good reminder.
Overall a good pickup for the month but always a good read at any time of the year. It is probably best geared towards high school students (in terms of text and all) but adults can read it just fine, too.
Borrowed from the library an that was best for me.
There are basically short entries about various topics: those mentioned above but many of those you maybe heard of or haven't read more about. There are a few pages for each (it varies but none go on too long), along with some illustrations and pictures. It's a light, breezy book overall that is not meant to be a scholarly work.
That's pretty much it. If you wanted to know more about Natives in what is now in the United States, this is a relatively "easy" entry that isn't too serious and does not get too "academic". It feels like a casual conversation. Clift also acknowledges that not all Natives would agree with him either, which is always a good reminder.
Overall a good pickup for the month but always a good read at any time of the year. It is probably best geared towards high school students (in terms of text and all) but adults can read it just fine, too.
Borrowed from the library an that was best for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m non-Native and I learned a ton of Native American history when I got a job with a tribal nation. It was astounding (and sad) how much I wasn’t taught about Native history as a kid. Since then, I haven’t shut up about how Christopher Columbus was a murderous trash human and didn’t discover s**t. I didn’t know he thought a manatee was a mermaid (thanks Joey!) so that’s another mark for how stupid this guy was.
Joey Clift is really funny and insightful. He blends heavy topics with humor. It doesn’t make the topics lighter, just a little easier to hold. It’s not all heavy stuff though! Enjoy the Native Name Generator and a sick flowchart about when you can touch a Native person’s hair! (Spoiler: there are VERY limited instances in which it’s okay to touch anyone’s hair. Period.)
if you’re non-Native and in the same white-washed boat like I was, this book is for you. If you’re Native, this book will make you feel seen. I loved it, truly.
Lastly, frybread tacos are amazing and if you haven’t had one, you’re missing out. I like mine with bison.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the ARC. Thank you to Joey Clift for teaching me more about Native people, your history and what’s happening today.
Joey Clift is really funny and insightful. He blends heavy topics with humor. It doesn’t make the topics lighter, just a little easier to hold. It’s not all heavy stuff though! Enjoy the Native Name Generator and a sick flowchart about when you can touch a Native person’s hair! (Spoiler: there are VERY limited instances in which it’s okay to touch anyone’s hair. Period.)
if you’re non-Native and in the same white-washed boat like I was, this book is for you. If you’re Native, this book will make you feel seen. I loved it, truly.
Lastly, frybread tacos are amazing and if you haven’t had one, you’re missing out. I like mine with bison.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the ARC. Thank you to Joey Clift for teaching me more about Native people, your history and what’s happening today.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The author debunks common Native American stereotypes and talks about culture with charming drawings and a humor that didn't quite click with me. I couldn't really tell what age range this book was going for. A lot of it feels juvenile, so I'd presumed teenagers, but it talks a lot about casinos, which although can have non-gambling related activities is still mostly for gambling, which teens can't do
I didn't like the font they used for quotes.
I also don't think that he ever defined what indigenous is. I looked through the book, so I may have missed it (?). I'd say that's pretty normal considering a lot of the book is talking about North America, but it has a small section on other countries. For indigenous, the definition I've always heard is that indigenous means people native to the land pre colonization, but, in other countries, I've seen the fact that they're political minorities be tacked on, when talking about domestic issues at least. Like, the Han Chinese are indigenous to china, but, if indigenous is used, it's usually used for the ethnic minorities. I don't know if that made any sense
Overall, it's a good book if you have a humor closer to his. I thought it was a decent overview, but it just mostly made me excited to pick up Deb Haaland's book to be frank
I didn't like the font they used for quotes.
I also don't think that he ever defined what indigenous is. I looked through the book, so I may have missed it (?). I'd say that's pretty normal considering a lot of the book is talking about North America, but it has a small section on other countries. For indigenous, the definition I've always heard is that indigenous means people native to the land pre colonization, but, in other countries, I've seen the fact that they're political minorities be tacked on, when talking about domestic issues at least. Like, the Han Chinese are indigenous to china, but, if indigenous is used, it's usually used for the ethnic minorities. I don't know if that made any sense
Overall, it's a good book if you have a humor closer to his. I thought it was a decent overview, but it just mostly made me excited to pick up Deb Haaland's book to be frank
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We’ve Been Here the Whole Time! corrects the shallow and outdated version of Native American history many people were taught in school. Joey Clift, a comedian from the Cowlitz tribe, covers topics ranging from Pocahontas and sports mascots to ancestry claims and the Land Back movement. The book makes a clear point that Native people are not confined to the past, and neither are the issues affecting Native communities.
The humor keeps the material approachable without making the history or modern-day misconceptions feel trivial. I also liked the visual format, with Julie Fiveash’s illustrations, satirical flowcharts, quizzes, and other interactive elements breaking up the information. The book includes resources for people who want to keep learning rather than treating this as a complete education in one volume.
Some sections will be more familiar to people who already read widely about Native history and current issues, but this is still an accessible and useful introduction. It would be especially valuable for adults trying to fill the considerable gaps left by their own schooling.
My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
The humor keeps the material approachable without making the history or modern-day misconceptions feel trivial. I also liked the visual format, with Julie Fiveash’s illustrations, satirical flowcharts, quizzes, and other interactive elements breaking up the information. The book includes resources for people who want to keep learning rather than treating this as a complete education in one volume.
Some sections will be more familiar to people who already read widely about Native history and current issues, but this is still an accessible and useful introduction. It would be especially valuable for adults trying to fill the considerable gaps left by their own schooling.
My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We've Been Here The Whole Time by Joey Clift with wonderful illustrations by Julie Fiveash is an educational but very entertaining introduction to Native American people, history and culture. As someone with only a glancing knowledge I felt like I learned so much but at the same time the witty and humorous tone meant that all of the information I was being presented with never felt overwhelming. As you might guess given the breadth of what the author is trying to describe there's a pretty high ratio of text to illustrations for something categorised as a graphic novel but the illustrations are cleverly used to both break up sections of text and also clarify some of the points by visually representing them as bar charts or flow charts etc. I found the timeline at the end of the book particularly striking, the author cleverly correlates major historical events with things like the release of the first Star Wars movie, highlighting how shockingly recent some of these injustices were ( and in some cases still are).
I found the book funny and fascinating but also heartbreaking, I am so glad that I picked it up .
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
I found the book funny and fascinating but also heartbreaking, I am so glad that I picked it up .
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you like your history served with a side of snark, this is probably your best bet. Joey Clift’s We’ve Been Here the Whole Time is sharp, funny, approachable, and genuinely enlightening. The book makes difficult, horrifying parts of American history accessible without softening them, and Clift presents everything with a ton of energy and confidence.
That said, this isn’t an academic text loaded with footnotes and scholarly citations. Aside from the copious list of Native-created and curated resources in the back, many of the stories and atrocities discussed aren’t deeply sourced on the page itself. But honestly, Clift is upfront that this is his perspective and that not all Native people agree with him on everything. The book feels more like an engaging conversation or crash course than a formal scholarly work.
What it does really well is give readers a strong first step into learning more about Native history, colonization, appropriation, stereotypes, and the land they’re literally standing on. It also helps clarify what’s offensive, appropriative, or casually racist in ways that many people probably were never taught. That alone gives the book value.
The art is cute, the design is accessible; part graphic novel/part light humorous text. The tone keeps things moving even when the subject matter gets heavy. My one complaint: the font used for the pull quotes was nearly illegible at times. Otherwise, it’s a smart, funny, eye-opening introduction that will hopefully push readers toward even deeper and more documented research afterward.
That said, this isn’t an academic text loaded with footnotes and scholarly citations. Aside from the copious list of Native-created and curated resources in the back, many of the stories and atrocities discussed aren’t deeply sourced on the page itself. But honestly, Clift is upfront that this is his perspective and that not all Native people agree with him on everything. The book feels more like an engaging conversation or crash course than a formal scholarly work.
What it does really well is give readers a strong first step into learning more about Native history, colonization, appropriation, stereotypes, and the land they’re literally standing on. It also helps clarify what’s offensive, appropriative, or casually racist in ways that many people probably were never taught. That alone gives the book value.
The art is cute, the design is accessible; part graphic novel/part light humorous text. The tone keeps things moving even when the subject matter gets heavy. My one complaint: the font used for the pull quotes was nearly illegible at times. Otherwise, it’s a smart, funny, eye-opening introduction that will hopefully push readers toward even deeper and more documented research afterward.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
We've Been Here the Whole Time.
I knew this was gonna be interesting, funny, and informative but I didn't know just how informative it was until I finished it.
This is an essential, accessible primer on Native American history and culture that every classroom should consider.
The author blends humor, blunt facts, and playful illustrations into a textbook-meets-notebook format that makes difficult subjects easy to understand without lessening their impact.
He covers ALL the topics schools skip or misteach (misteach is not a strong enough word)— from Pocahontas and racist mascots to Land Back and modern Indigenous achievements — all of these are handled with grace and style.
I learned SO MUCH I didn’t know (or only half-understood), including how Native American ideas and leaders influenced democratic practices. 🤯
The book upends common assumptions and left me with a deeper, more accurate appreciation for Native peoples, past and present.
This is a must-read for anyone interested in history, cultural appropriation, and should be required reading in high schools.
I knew this was gonna be interesting, funny, and informative but I didn't know just how informative it was until I finished it.
This is an essential, accessible primer on Native American history and culture that every classroom should consider.
The author blends humor, blunt facts, and playful illustrations into a textbook-meets-notebook format that makes difficult subjects easy to understand without lessening their impact.
He covers ALL the topics schools skip or misteach (misteach is not a strong enough word)— from Pocahontas and racist mascots to Land Back and modern Indigenous achievements — all of these are handled with grace and style.
I learned SO MUCH I didn’t know (or only half-understood), including how Native American ideas and leaders influenced democratic practices. 🤯
The book upends common assumptions and left me with a deeper, more accurate appreciation for Native peoples, past and present.
This is a must-read for anyone interested in history, cultural appropriation, and should be required reading in high schools.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was such a fun read if you want to learn more about Natives. I was always shocked at how little they taught us about Natives in our history class, especially when speaking on the founding of America. This was a great, first look at how Natives have been shaping and influencing the country from the get go along with the injustices that have happened to them throughout the years. There were a lot of historical figures in this book i never realized were Natives!
When it comes to the book formatting itself, I loved how this book was a mix of information, comedy and doodles. The illustrations were amazing, kudos to the artist!! The layout of the book was well presented and the author didn't stay on one topic too long before moving to the next. The only issue i had was with the font for some of the quotes.. it was a bit hard to read. I also am so happy that the author is proud of their tribes casino, but it gets a bit redundant after a bit.
All in all, 4/5 stars. Thank you for the lessons!
When it comes to the book formatting itself, I loved how this book was a mix of information, comedy and doodles. The illustrations were amazing, kudos to the artist!! The layout of the book was well presented and the author didn't stay on one topic too long before moving to the next. The only issue i had was with the font for some of the quotes.. it was a bit hard to read. I also am so happy that the author is proud of their tribes casino, but it gets a bit redundant after a bit.
All in all, 4/5 stars. Thank you for the lessons!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was really interested in the topic, as an European you often don't have the biggest insight in native american culture, so I was hoping to learn more about it through this book.
Unfortunately I wasn't able to finish the book (tried until page 100) because I couldn't get warm with the writing style, it is written way too juvenile for me, to me it felt like the author was trying to sound super casual and explaining native American culture and history to their buddy.
The topics were really interesting and I was able to learn new things about the american history and I think it is really important to write and publish books like this one, so more people can learn about and from the cruel things that happened. I would have enjoyed learning even more from this book but was hindered by the writing style.
I don't feel like I am part of the target audience, even though I was not able to understand what the target audience was.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately I wasn't able to finish the book (tried until page 100) because I couldn't get warm with the writing style, it is written way too juvenile for me, to me it felt like the author was trying to sound super casual and explaining native American culture and history to their buddy.
The topics were really interesting and I was able to learn new things about the american history and I think it is really important to write and publish books like this one, so more people can learn about and from the cruel things that happened. I would have enjoyed learning even more from this book but was hindered by the writing style.
I don't feel like I am part of the target audience, even though I was not able to understand what the target audience was.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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